GLOUCESTER — Chief Eric Smith and the Gloucester Fire Department report that due to ongoing brush fires across the state, residents likely have noticed the smell of smoke and hazy skies.
Both Gloucester and Rockport Fire Departments have responded to and investigated numerous reports of smoke odor, including launching drone units to confirm that there were no active brush or wildland fires within the communities. Through these responses, both departments were able to determine that the odor of smoke and haze were not from the communities of Rockport or Gloucester.
Residents and community members are reminded that the smell of smoke may stay in the air for days due to the ongoing dry conditions and elevated wildfire risks. However, this does not mean there is a current fire burning in Gloucester.
Chief Smith reminds the community that hazy skies are a normal result of extensive outdoor fires and that they should clear a few days after the fires are extinguished. It is important to note that since brush fires have been consistent across the state, it may take longer for the residual smoke conditions to clear.
Given the dry conditions and the elevated risk of wildfires and fire spreading, residents are reminded that outdoor burning is prohibited at this time of year and fire conditions should be closely monitored at all times:
Refrain from outdoor cooking and heating. Sparks and embers from chimineas, fire pits, and grills can easily ignite dry vegetation, debris, and overhanging branches.
A trusted adult must be present before, during, and after a cooking fire.
Do not use gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids to burn brush, trash, or other waste.
Extinguish smoking materials in a sturdy ashtray with water or sand. Never toss cigarette butts, matches, or other smoking materials over the edge of a balcony, stub them out on stairs or railings, or toss them in dry vegetation or debris.
Use caution with lawnmowers, leaf blowers, all-terrain vehicles, and other power equipment. The engines can become hot enough to ignite dry leaves and grass.
Properly dispose of ashes or coals from fireplaces, wood stoves, or grills in a metal can, douse it with water, and secure it with a tight-fitting lid. These ashes can remain hot enough to reignite and cause a fire.
Residents and community members should follow instructions from local safety officials.
Wildfire smoke can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Smokey skies can diminish the air quality and residents are reminded to take precautions as some vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, or those with premeditated breathing conditions may be affected.
For more information regarding safety tips, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
A message from the Gloucester Fire Department
